Following Game 4 of the NBA Finals, LeBron James revealed he had suffered what was described as “a deep bone contusion” on his right hand right after Game 1 when he punched a black board in the locker room.

Punching usually injures the metacarpal bone of the small finger. The head (end) of the metacarpal forms your knuckle when you make a fist.

An MRI was done, which suggests that radiographs were normal. Two MRIs were done with the explanation that the contusion was only visible when some of the swelling went down. Swelling should not affect diagnosis of fracture on an MRI so it is unclear why two exams were ordered.  For most people a normal radiograph would be sufficient. One non-concerning MRI would be more than enough. A contusion that is difficult to see on MRI is quite minor. A bone contusion means that the bone is injured, but remains structurally sound.

The body heals a bone bruise without immobilization or projection.  It’s better to keep the hand moving to limit stiffness and swelling.

Bone bruises are painful. The bone may be a little weaker due to microscopic damage, but only for a month or two. It’s safe to play.

This blog was written by Paul Bonilla and David Ring.